As a real estate professional, it’s important you have a personal safety protocol in place that you use every day with every client, like when meeting new clients, showing properties or sharing information online.
There are a variety of tools you can add to your personal safety protocol, such as smartphone apps like SentriLock’s Agent Safety feature, Homes Pro’s Safety Timer, or NAR’s safety resources. Whether you’re conducting in-person showings or using virtual tools, keep your safety in mind with these quick tips.
Tip #1 – Keep It Light
Show properties before dark. If you are going to be working after hours, advise your associate or first-line supervisor of your schedule. If you must show a property after dark, turn on all lights as you go through, and don’t lower any shades or draw curtains or blinds.
Tip #2 – Touch Base
Always let someone know where you are going and when you will be back; leave the name and phone number of the client you are meeting and schedule a time for your office to call you to check in.
Tip #3 – Bring Up the Rear
When showing a home, always have your prospect walk in front of you. Don’t lead them, but rather, direct them from a position slightly behind them. You can gesture for them to go ahead of you and say, for example, “The primary suite is in the back of the house.”
Tip #4 – Agree on an Office Distress Code
Create a voice distress code, a secret word or phrase that is not commonly used but can be worked into any conversation for cases where you feel that you are in danger. Use this if the person you are with can overhear the conversation, but you don’t want to alarm them. Example: “Hi, this is Jennifer. I’m with Mr. Henderson at the Elm Street listing. Could you e-mail me the RED FILE?”
Tip #5 – Open House: It Ain’t Over ‘Til It’s Over
Don’t assume that everyone has left the premises at the end of an open house. Check all of the rooms and the backyard prior to locking the doors. Be prepared to defend yourself, if necessary.
Tip #6 – Focus on Health
In recent years, real estate professionals have brought new health precautions to common practices. So you can be safe and make the best decision for you, your business, and your clients, stay informed.
- Take preventative measures like hand washing and social distancing
- Speak openly and honestly with your clients and seek guidance from your managing broker
- Stay up to date on information from the CDC and the World Health Organization
Tip #7 – Bring a Buddy
If door-knocking is a strategy you like to use to win new business, consider bringing a buddy or two for an extra level of safety. It’s also a good idea to research the neighborhood and be prepared to leave door hangers.
Tip #8 – Go Virtual
Take advantage of new technology to market your listings!
- Host a Virtual Open House
- Record a Virtual Tour
- Publish Strong Listing Photos
- Add a Floorplan
Pro Tip: Be mindful of online threats and follow email safety best practices.
